Common mistakes in retouching | CATALOG | Main mistakes in lighting

What photos are needed for a portfolio?

Published: 21.09.2021

What photos are needed for a portfolio? - фото

Portfolio is a business card and a sales tool for any profession. People judge and make conclusions about a person and their professionalism based on their portfolio before even meeting them. A high-quality portfolio increases the chances of success. Therefore, it is important to compile it correctly, take high-quality photos, and present them beautifully. Let's consider what is needed to create a good portfolio and what photos are required for different professions.

General recommendations for creating a portfolio



To make your portfolio look presentable and to attract potential clients and employers to contact you, we recommend considering the following nuances when compiling it:




  • 1. Take photos for your portfolio with professional equipment, even if you have the latest model iPhone and you think the mobile camera takes great pictures. Do not skimp on a photographer with professional optics. The difference between a mobile and a DSLR camera is noticeable. Professional photos significantly differ from amateur ones.
  • 2. Do not include too many photos in your portfolio, even if you really like them. No employer will be reviewing hundreds of your pictures. Save the clients' time, be concise. Choose only the best shots. It's better to have 10 high-quality photos than 100 mediocre ones.
  • 3. Use a variety of photos for your portfolio. Show that you can be versatile and look different. Try to showcase all of your strengths.
  • 4. Use high-quality photos. Customers need to see details and examine the intricacies. Make sure all photos are in high resolution.
  • 5. Don't forget about adding text descriptions to photos in your portfolio. Sometimes it's not entirely clear from the image alone what the author is trying to express. In addition, text can significantly enhance the photo. For example, if a model posts a picture from the runway, it's worth mentioning the fashion show, the clothing collection, and other clarifying information.
  • 6. Regularly update your portfolio and add new photos. All photos should be current and in line with modern trends. If the clothing on the models is from a decade ago and out of style, it will be a negative in your portfolio. Use the latest and trendiest shots.

What photos are needed for a model's portfolio?


A standard model portfolio should include a full-length photo (in a swimsuit or lingerie) to clearly show the figure, a portrait, a fashion photo, a candid shot, and a clothing catalog photo. It is also important to include a photo with minimal makeup to showcase the model's natural beauty. Optionally, you can include artistic photos with unusual makeup or styling. It is important to show yourself from all angles, highlight the strengths of your figure, and demonstrate the ability to pose for the camera. Try to use minimal accessories and jewelry so they do not distract from the model's appearance and body. Choose clothing that fits perfectly on the figure. Use minimal filters and photoshop to ensure that the photos reflect reality and that you are easily recognizable in them.

What photos are needed for an actor's portfolio?


In an actor's portfolio, you should include a photo of your face without heavy makeup and harsh shadows, casting agencies need to carefully consider your appearance without filters and embellishments. You will also need a full-body photo to give an idea of the actor's physique and height. Be sure to add emotional photos demonstrating how you use facial expressions. If you have work experience, include photos from the set with a description of the project and your role in it. Avant-garde shots in unusual clothing or style will also be suitable. Try to show a variety of emotions in the photos: sadness, joy, thoughtfulness, euphoria, melancholy, etc.

What photos are needed for an artist's portfolio


An artist's portfolio differs from other creative professions. Here, the focus is not so much on the author's personality, but on their artwork. Be sure to include a photo of the author in the portfolio, as people are always interested in seeing the face of the artist. The rest of the photos should showcase the artwork. Show paintings in different genres and with different techniques. Make sure to use professional equipment with good color rendering, so that all shades and nuances of the paintings are visible. If you have photos from an exhibition, add them to the portfolio. It would be good to showcase awards, certificates, and photos of medals from various competitions.

What photos are needed for a nurse's portfolio?


A nurse's portfolio is needed for accreditation or when looking for a job. In addition to professional information about degrees, work experience, and training courses, the portfolio should include photographs. The first photo should be a portrait of the nurse, preferably at work or in medical attire. In addition to personal photos, include pictures with colleagues, patients, and images of medical procedures being performed. If you have participated in conferences, received awards or certificates, photograph them and add them to your portfolio. It is important to demonstrate your level of professionalism through photos taken during work.

What photos are needed for a teacher's portfolio?


The first thing that is noticed when hiring a teacher is a well-written and attractive portfolio. A boring description with work experience no longer impresses anyone, teachers need to show their personality, interaction with children. Take photos at the blackboard, pictures with the class, add shots with the team. Nothing speaks better about a teacher than happy children around them. Show how students greet you, take photos from official events, extracurricular activities, concerts, graduations. Demonstrate the diverse development of the teacher and love for children.

Cool photos deserve unusual framing. Print your cool photos in Polaroid style. Fans of instant photography from the 90s may experience familiar feelings when holding a Polaroid-style photo in their hands. Those unfamiliar with traditional Polaroids will enjoy square images with space for captions.


To create a portfolio, it is essential to hire an experienced photographer. It can be quite challenging to take successful photos that will attract potential employers on your own. Investing in a photoshoot will pay off, as first impressions from bad photos cannot be undone.